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How to Stay Motivated to Reach Your Goal

By Cindy Clemens, Life Coach

Too often people make a mental note to reach a goal, give it a thought or two during the week and are then disappointed when they don't make any real progress.

Three key steps must be taken to stay on track and reach a personal goal. First, the goal must leave the overloaded brain cavity and get written down. Until it is firmly acknowledged and given focus and attention, it will only be a passing thought. Keeping it visible on a sticky note attached to the computer screen or the bathroom mirror is a great way to give it daily care and feeding.

Second, the goal needs to be broken down into manageable, realistic steps. Try to under-promise and over-perform. By asking yourself to accomplish what you can actually get done, you will set yourself up for success and build in positive momentum. Baby steps are fine so long as they actually get done and lead to bigger steps.

Third, don't let a minor setback become a major obstacle. There will be days when things don't go according to the plan. That does not mean you should give yourself permission to take several days off or that you have failed. Those who do reach their goals recognize what went wrong, learn how to avoid the pitfall, forgive themselves, and get back on the path. It is about progress, not perfection!